At Premier Family Dentistry in Libertyville, Illinois, we understand the critical role healthy gums play in the overall well-being of your oral health and, by extension, your general health. Led by our skilled dentists, Dr. Elizabeth Tucker and Dr. Garrett Obenauf, our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive periodontal care designed to prevent, diagnose, and treat gum disease at every stage. From the earliest signs of gingivitis to the more advanced stages of periodontitis, our practice offers personalized treatment plans to halt the progression of gum disease and restore your oral health.

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a progressive condition that affects the gum tissue and, in severe cases, can lead to tooth loss and damage to the bone supporting the teeth. It typically progresses through three stages:

Gingivitis

The beginning stage of gum disease is characterized by inflammation of gum tissue, caused by the buildup of plaque at the gumline. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and bleeding during brushing or flossing. Gingivitis can be reversible with professional treatment and good oral hygiene.

Periodontitis

Untreated gingivitis can advance to become periodontitis, in which the inner layer of the gum tissue and bone pull away from the teeth and form deeper pockets that become infected. As the disease progresses, these pockets deepen and gum and bone tissue begin to be destroyed. Teeth may become loose as a result of their support structures eroding.

Advanced Periodontitis

In this final stage, the connective tissue that holds your teeth in place is destroyed, potentially causing teeth to shift or loosen. This can affect your bite and, without aggressive treatment, may lead to tooth loss.

Our Periodontal Services

Recognizing the importance of treating gum disease early, Premier Family Dentistry offers a range of periodontal services tailored to meet the needs of each stage of gum disease, focusing on restoring health and preventing further damage.

1. Scaling and Root Planing

For those with periodontitis, scaling and root planing is a deep-cleaning, nonsurgical procedure we use to treat chronic periodontal disease. Under local anesthesia, scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. Root planing then smooths rough spots on the tooth root where germs gather, helping to remove bacteria that contribute to the disease. This procedure can be very effective in stopping the progression of periodontitis and encouraging the healing of gum tissue.

2. Prescription Mouthwash

For patients who are still in the early stages of gum disease or those prone to gingivitis, we often recommend the use of prescription mouthwash as part of their daily oral hygiene routine. These medicated rinses are designed to reduce plaque, prevent or reduce gingivitis, reduce the speed of tartar formation, and, in some cases, eliminate bacteria responsible for bad breath. They can be an effective first line of defense against gum disease when used in conjunction with regular brushing and flossing.

CloSYS Mouthwash: Our Recommended Solution

Among the prescription mouthwashes available, Premier Family Dentistry specifically recommends CloSYS Mouthwash for our patients. This alcohol-free mouthwash is known for its gentle yet effective formula that eliminates 99.9% of bacteria that cause bad breath, plaque, and gingivitis within seconds of use. Its unique formula is designed to neutralize odors and help maintain the natural balance of the mouth’s pH, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive mouths or those looking to maintain fresh breath alongside their periodontal health efforts.

Who Should Use CloSYS Mouthwash?

CloSYS Mouthwash is particularly beneficial for:

• Individuals in the early stages of gum disease, as it helps to prevent the progression of gingivitis to periodontitis.
• Those with sensitive mouths who find traditional mouthwashes too harsh.
• Patients looking for an effective solution to combat bad breath while also addressing the health of their gums.

Why Choose Premier Family Dentistry for Your Periodontal Treatment?

At Premier Family Dentistry, Dr. Tucker and Dr. Obenauf, along with our dedicated team, are committed to providing the best quality of care in a warm and welcoming environment. Understanding that every patient’s needs are unique, we take a personalized approach to periodontal treatment, making sure that you receive the most effective and beneficial care for your specific condition.

By choosing us for your periodontal needs, you’re not just getting a treatment; you’re gaining a partner in your oral health journey. Our goal is to not only treat the symptoms of gum disease but to educate and empower our patients to maintain their oral health and prevent future disease. To get more information about our periodontal services or to schedule an appointment at our practice, please contact Premier Family Dentistry in Libertyville, IL, today (we’re also convenient for patients in Vernon Hills). Together, let’s take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile.